Konstantinos Aggelakis (1874-1965)

Konstantinos Angelakis (1874-1965) was a key figure in Thessaloniki's early 20th-century history. A doctor by profession, he played an important role in the political and social affairs of the time. Born into a family of large landowners, Angelakis actively contributed to the Macedonian Struggle as a member of the organizing committee in Thessaloniki. After the city's liberation in 1912, he was appointed the first Greek mayor from 1916 to 1920 by the Provisional Government of National Defense. The challenges he faced were immense, with the most significant being the Great Fire of 1917, which destroyed large parts of the city. Angelakis was involved in the committee that worked on the new urban planning scheme, attempting to breathe new life into the burned Thessaloniki. Alongside his mayoral duties, he maintained a strong business presence, participating in industrial enterprises such as a wire fence factory in 1931. His financial influence led him to become involved in collective organizations like the Property Syndicate and the Agricultural Chamber of Thessaloniki. Angelakis was a supporter of Eleftherios Venizelos and the liberal party. However, his attempt to be re-elected as mayor in 1925 failed due to internal conflicts within the Liberals. Nevertheless, he continued his social activities, serving as an honorary vice president of the Greek Red Cross. Pictured: letter from the Board of Directors of the Iraklis Gymnastics Club of Thessaloniki, dated July 7, 1920, addressed to Konstantinos Angelakis, Mayor of Thessaloniki. ©Iraklis New Gymnastics Club of Thessaloniki 1908.